What are the key concepts for solving force equilibrium problems?

[plorio]

I have several questions on my physics homework. I have not covered this at all and just had it thrown at me. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

1) Calculate the amount of mass you would have to hang at 0* if 100g is hung from 135* and 225* to put the force table in equilibrium.

2) Calculate the amount of mass you would have to hang at 0* if 100g is located at 127* and 150g at 217* to put the force table in equilibrium.

3) If you have a total of two masses on a force table, one with mass (m) and one with mass (2m), where would the two pulleys have to be placed in order for the forces to cancel?

4) A 2000 kg mass is suspended by two ropes making a 45* angle with the vertical. What are the tensions on each of the two ropes?

 

[jbsteele]

1) To put the force table in equilibrium, you will need to hang a mass of 100g at 0°. 2) To put the force table in equilibrium, you will need to hang a mass of 250g at 0°. 3) The two pulleys would have to be placed directly opposite each other in order for the forces to cancel. 4) The tension on each rope is equal to 1000 kg.